The stage manager is at the core of every successful theatre production. He or she organises, manages and runs rehearsals and performances; researches and procures the props and furniture; and provides a creative information flow between the production and design departments.<BR><BR>This handbook is aimed at students, graduates and all those who aspire to stage management, whether amateur or professional, on a large or small scale. Complete with illustrations, diagrams and helpful checklists, it takes the reader through a typical production, week by week.<BR><BR>As well as updated information and resources throughout, this new edition includes two brand new chapters: case studies of professional stage managers and producers working in the field, and an essay on creativity in stage management.<BR><BR>Gail Pallin began her career as a stage manager at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh, and has worked at many of the major rep theatres throughout Britain, including stage managing the original production of Road at the Royal Court Theatre, London. She has directed various productions with youth and community groups in Scotland, and taught Stage Management at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, and Adam Smith College in Fife.<BR><BR>The Stage Management Association (SMA) is the membership organisation which supports, represents and promotes stage management in the UK. Gail Pallin is on its Board of Directors and her special responsibility is the representation of Scottish members.<BR><BR>`The clearest and most practical comprehensive work on the subject that I have seen' The Stage<BR><BR>`Full of possible gentle reminders for the more experienced practitioner, and for the curious layman a positive eye-opener' Alan Ayckbourn